Longmont combines nature trails, wildlife watching, history, and activities centered on water and good food. At the Sandstone Ranch Visitors & Learning Center, a nature trail passes several historic buildings and runs close to sandstone cliffs; the route also includes a viewpoint. The Center offers one- and two-hour guided group tours year-round. When planning, you can allow time for both independent exploration and a guided tour.

Nature Trails and Wildlife Watching

The McIntosh Lake Nature Area in northwest Longmont has 3.5 miles of easy walking trails. It also offers good wildlife-watching opportunities: species mentioned include prairie dogs, bald eagles, and pelicans, as well as other wildlife. Those who want to focus on trails and wildlife watching will find a different emphasis here than on the nature trail at Sandstone Ranch, which passes historic buildings and runs close to sandstone cliffs, and includes a viewpoint.

Culture and History in Longmont

The Longmont Museum’s collection includes more than 17,000 objects, 10,000 photographs, and thousands of documents about the history of Longmont and the St. Vrain Valley; these figures may continue to grow over time. The Art in Public Places program complements this with permanent and temporary art installations throughout Longmont. Together, they offer different cultural perspectives: the history of the city and the valley, and art installations in public spaces.

Water Activities and Cycling

The Dickens Farm Nature Area has a floating course along St. Vrain Creek. It is open to inner tubes, kayaks, paddleboards, and small non-motorized boats. The Nature Area also has a beginner cycling skills course. If you include these offerings in your travel plans, you can choose between an on-water activity and a cycling skills course.

Near Longmont, the Union Sailing Club holds weekly regattas at Union Reservoir in spring, summer, and fall. Annual regattas, social events, youth programs, and courses open to the general sailing public are also held there. If sailing is a focus of your trip, check the specific event dates for your travel dates.

Cheesemaking and Craft Drinks

The Art of Cheese offers the opportunity to make cheese yourself in Longmont. Before visiting, check for up-to-date dates and booking details. Another way to explore Longmont’s craft drink scene is the Brewhop Trolley: passengers can hop on and off at numerous craft drink venues around the city. Check current schedules and dates when planning your visit.

Plan Longmont as a Starting Point

Longmont’s bus network makes it easier to explore the city and take day trips to Boulder, Denver, and Fort Collins. Check connections for the specific days you have planned. This lets you prioritize nature, culture, and excursions according to your interests without having to fit all your activities into the same day.

Bus connections can also factor into your plans.

Discover more destinations: Boulder, Superior, Louisville, Allenspark, Niwot

Go to the main travel overview: Boulder.